How to Know If Your Kid Has Baby Bottle Tooth Decay
Posted on 2/20/2023 by Robert Leale
Baby bottle tooth decay is a common oral issue in children. If left untreated, it can get worse over time. It can also lead to tooth loss, which can later affect adult teeth. The big issue is that the signs of baby bottle tooth decay can take a while to show up. That's why prevention should be your priority. However, some warning signs might indicate that tooth decay is progressing. Here are 4 common signs of tooth decay in kids.
Toothache
Tooth pain is often an early sign of baby bottle tooth decay. When the teeth hurt, the child may find it challenging to concentrate. Their performance may go low, and they may avoid smiling because of the pain. If your child complains of tooth pain, it may be time to seek professional help.
Sensitivity to Hot and Cold
Tooth decay creates holes in the enamel, exposing the nerve endings. Due to this, your child may experience sharp or dull pain when they consume certain foods and beverages.
Tooth Discoloration
Another sign of tooth decay is tooth discoloration. Tooth decay can cause teeth discoloration in various ways. For instance, cavities destroy the teeth' enamel, exposing the dentin, which is naturally dark. The decayed part of the tooth will also darken as it starts to die. This results in discolored spots. Therefore, if your child has brown or dark spots, chances are they have tooth decay.
Bad Breath
When you have tooth decay, you'll likely notice a hole in the decayed tooth. After some time, bacteria and food particles will accumulate in the hole, causing bad breath.
While these are the common signs of baby bottle tooth decay, it is vital to look for other symptoms, such as an unpleasant taste in the mouth or pain when chewing or biting. Contact us and learn more about the signs of tooth decay in kids.
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Northview Family Dental 1121 E. Westview Ct. Spokane, WA 99218-1319